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Defining An Investment Framework For Africa
January 23, 2020
Dear Friends:
With great pleasure I extend my congratulations to the
African Diaspora Network (ADN) as it holds its 5th African
Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS), this year with the
theme of Defining an Investment Framework for Africa.
The African Diaspora Network began holding this flagship
event in 2016 with the goal of engaging entrepreneurial-
minded, Africa-focused leaders and professional from across
the United States, Canada, Europe, and Africa.
Since its inception, ADIS has strived to lift up the tremendous investment and
commercial opportunities represented by the communities, governments and
businesses on the continent of Africa. ADIS has worked to promote a sophisticated
vision for investing, and to encourage a collaborative model that strengthens the
social and economic links between the contemporary and historical African
diaspora.
ADN works to act as a resource and, for many, a starting point for understanding
the prospects, and finding assistance with the challenges, to harness public and
private resources to reach the common goal of doing well while doing good.
As chair of the U.S. House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on
Africa, I have come to understand that realizing the full potential of the continent
will require strong business connections between the U.S. and Africa. This will
depend on building and deepening relationships like those that I hope will form
over the course of this conference.
Thank you for your leadership. You have my best wishes on a memorable event!
Sincerely,
Karen Bass
Member of Congress
African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2020 2
Acknowledgments
Special thanks to the 2020 African Diaspora Investment Symposium sponsors.
Signature Sponsors
Premium Sponsors
Platinum
Friends
•
Individual Sponsors
TWUM DJIN| JOSHUA GHAIM | DUNCAN GOLDIE-SCOT
DR. MUSIMBI KANYORO | DAWIT HABTEZGHI | REGGA TEKESTE
JACQUELINE BOUVIER COPELAND | HUGH MOLOTSI | ABBEY OMOKHODION
DAVE WILDE | CHARLIE ADAMS
3 Defining An Investment Framework For Africa
Acknowledgments
Partners
Lead #ADIS20 Media Partner
Contact: Liz Grossman
Media Partners
Contact: Fernando Cowen Contact: Rachel Onamusi
ADIS20 Exhibitors
African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2020 4
African Diaspora Network (ADN)
African Diaspora Investment Symposium
African Diaspora Network is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit membership organization. Since 2010, the African
Diaspora Network has energized collaboration among Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and African
diasporans to uplift its local community towards the benefit of Africa. ADN is dedicated to providing virtual and
physical forums to accelerate access to resources that foster partnership, facilitate knowledge sharing, and advance
investment opportunities.
Visit our new website at http://africandiasporanetwork.org/
Our Vision Our Mission
We envision the African Diaspora Network as a go-to We strive to bring together Africans on the continent,
resource, strategic partner, and thought leader guiding and in the diaspora, and friends of Africa to actualize their
organizing social entrepreneurs, innovators, investors and full potential, activate their entrepreneurial spirit, and
leaders in their ambitions to create positive change for the strategically mobilize financial and intellectual resources to
African continent and the communities in which we live. ensure a brighter future for the African continent.
Board of Directors ADN Executive Advisory Council
Twum Djin, Chairman of the Board; Chief Technology Kedest Tesfagiorgis, Senior Program Officer, Bill & Melinda
Officer, Goodwater Capital Gates Foundation
Josh Ghaim, Ph.D., Founder and Managing Partner – Kamran Elahian, Founder and Chairman, Global Innovation
Catalyst, LLC
IgniteGB Inc., Co-Founder and CEO - Small World Brands Mussie Haile, Founder and CEO of Moya Technologies, Inc
Inc. Dr. Martin Russell, PhD, Affiliate of The Networking Institute
Ndeye Makalou, Commercial Director, Roche Serge Ouedraogo, Director of Special Projects
Almaz Negash, Founder, African Diaspora Network Jenna O’Brien, Growth Manager, Chicago Beyond
Innocent Shumba, Partner, Ernst & Young, San Jose Zekarias Amsalu, Founder, IBEX Frontier/Financial
Duncan Goldie-Scot, Co-Founder, Musoni Kenya, Ltd Consultancy Ltd.
Radhika Shah, Stanford Angels & Entrepreneurs
Agnieska Winkler, Founder, Winkler Group Abbey Omokhodion, Senior Finance Director IOTG, Intel
Corporation
ADN Team Volunteers Digital Media Fellows
Almaz Negash, Executive Director and Founder Gladys Foyoh Angesom Teklu
Daniel Hartz, Director of Finance and Operations Dawit Weldeghergish Fresenai Afeworki
Debra Pacio, Content Developer and Storyteller Efrem Tewelde Samuel Gebrehiwet
Yinka Djin, Information Technology Associate Braddy Ozoekwe Ninette Irabaruta
Sinafik Gebru, Manager, Impact and Innovation Adolpha Cole Abdishakur Ahmed
Caroline Ocampo, Public Information Officer Ibrahim Balde
Chike Nwoffiah, Production Director Tigist Keneni
Braddy Ozoekwe, Production Coordinator Qudus Lawal
Leah Symekher
Aster Gubay
Haimi Shah
5 Defining An Investment Framework For Africa
Message From the Founder of the African Diaspora Network
Welcome to the fifth annual African Diaspora Investment Symposium! We are excited to have you be a part of
this landmark occasion as we begin anew in this defining decade. It is hard to believe that nine years ago, African
Diaspora Network began as an idea fueled by the belief that Africans, Diasporans, and friends of Africa can co-
create possibilities and opportunities on the Continent and the communities in which we live. Our four symposiums
have proven this to be true. With your help, we have made tremendous progress in advancing this vision.
ADN is diversity and inclusion in action. Our intention is and always has been to build a global community around
four themes: investment, innovation, human capital development, and entrepreneurship. African Diaspora Investment
Almaz Negash Symposium has developed as our signature launchpad for reaching and catalyzing this goal. The fruits of our four
Founder of African symposiums include a new series of events, initiatives, and partnerships that leverage the ingenuity of our community.
Diaspora Network To date, we have hosted over 1,000 Africans, diasporans, and friends of Africa in the heart of Silicon Valley. We have
scaled our convenings coast to coast, from the Bay Area to Washington D.C. and New York. All of this is possible
thanks to the support of our board, financial sponsors, advisory committee, champions, and our small, but mighty
team.
African Diaspora Network continues to grow in numbers, reach, content, and commitments. For the first time, we
are proud to share that the cumulation of this humble work has enabled us to bring five pipelines of 40+ rising stars
in African innovation and entrepreneurship to ADIS20. We welcome the Stanford Seed Transformation Network
Members, Harambeans, Segal Family Foundation African Visionary Fellows, Mastercard Foundation Scholars, and
the 2020 Builders of Africa’s Future fellows to the fifth annual symposium.
We invite you to celebrate five years of ADIS, fostering the ingenuity of the African community at home and abroad
alongside champions from around the world. Join us to make the African Diaspora Investment Symposium and African
Diaspora Network a platform for dialogue, action, co-creation, and most importantly, community-building. Together
we can become the conduit for making a difference for ourselves, the continent we come from, and the communities in
which we live.
As always,
Almaz Negash
Founder and Executive Director, ADN
Message From the Chairman of the African Diaspora Network
Welcome to ADIS 2020!
At last year’s event, we heard from an amazing group of entrepreneurs, investors, and NGOs about the power of
human capital to drive change in Africa. This year’s ADIS will bring you actionable information on how communities,
governments, and organizations can build successful partnerships in Africa.
Returning for a 3rd year is the Builders of Africa’s Future (BAF) awards ceremony. Our BAF award recipients from
previous years have gone on to scale businesses, receive further recognition, and attract investment capital through
our network. At ADIS 2020, we’re excited to welcome entrepreneurs from several programs including Stanford
Twum Djin, SEED, MIT D-Lab, Harambe, J&J, IDP, Segal Family Foundation, and Conrad Hilton Foundation. These programs are
Chief Technology amplifying entrepreneurship in Africa and we’re proud to partner with them in their efforts.
Officer, Goodwater
Capital If you’re a returning ADIS attendee or ADN member, we’re grateful for your continued patronage. Your dedication
and feedback is what keeps ADIS improving year after year.
You’ll find that a lot of thought and attention has gone into this year’s programming. We expect that you will enjoy
authentic conversations that defines the ADIS experience, and that you will come away with meaningful connections
from our community and guests.
If you are inspired by this year’s ADIS, we’d like you to consider supporting our programs through a tax-deductible
donation this year. It’s the generous contributions from attendees like you that makes each year’s event possible.
As always, we wish to invite you to join our growing African Diaspora Network community. Members are invited to
attend convenings here in the Bay Area and across the United States throughout the year. Over the years, ADN has
hosted investor and entrepreneur fireside chats, as well as private dinners with African leaders both in the private and
public sectors.
It’s my pleasure to welcome you to the ADIS 2020. I look forward to meeting each and every one of you over the next
few days.
Yours truly,
Twum
Chairman of board, ADN
African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2020 6
African Diaspora Network Symposium 2020
Tuesday, January 21
Builders of Africa’s Future: Welcoming Reception
Builders of Africa’s Future Fellows Welcome Reception, Avante Hotel 19:00 - 21:00
Wednesday, January 22
Builders of Africa’s Future: Pitch Presentation Mentorship
Day One: The Investment Ecosystem: Capturing Exceptional Returns in Africa
Full-Day Workshop, Miller Center for Entrepreneurship at Santa Clara University 8:30 - 16:00
eBay Practice Pitches 16:15 - 17:15
Fellows Reception, hosted by eBay 17:30 - 19:00
Thursday, January 23
Pre-ADIS Convening & Evening Launch Reception: Networking & Welcome
sponsored by Conrad Hilton Foundation
*Private Meetings and Events 9:00 - 18:00
ADN Board Meeting 8:30 - 12:30
Private Meeting with African Entrepreneurs 16:00 - 17:30
Tour of the Computer History Museum 16:00 - 17:00
ADIS2020 Welcome Reception, with Live Musical Entertainment 18:00
Welcome Note: Almaz Negash, Sup. Dave Cortese, and Sr. Jane 18:15
Keynote Address: Luam Keflezgy 18:30
Barka Awards Ceremony 18:45
Fireside Chat: Blended Value and Social Enterprise Initiatives in Africa 18:50
Spotlight on Innovation in Africa 19:20
Hors d’oeuvres and Refreshments
Adjourn 20:30
Friday, January 24
Day One: Designing Streamlined & Sustainable Systems Across the Continent
The first day is designed to provide a space for dialogue on the role of governments and businesses to create private-public
partnerships on sustainable infrastructure in the areas of finance, technology, energy, and innovation.
Registration and Breakfast 8:00 - 9:00
Opening Entertainment: Live Performance 8:30 - 8:45
Welcome & Opening Remarks 8:45 - 9:05
Opening Keynote Speech: 9:05 - 9:20
Hon. Joseph Mucheru, EGH, Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Kenya
Prosper Africa, the New U.S. Africa Trade and Investment Policy, Fred Stewart, U.S. Department of 9:20 - 9:40
Commerce
Digitizing Africa to Create Systems of Accountability & Transparency 9:45 - 10:45
Coffee Break 10:45 - 11:00
7 Defining An Investment Framework For Africa
Power Africa: Energy & Renewable Resources 11:00 - 12:00
Networking Lunch - Sector-Specific Topics (Power, Energy, Accountability) 12:00 - 13:00
Diaspora Remittances and Sustainable Development Agenda 2030 13:00 - 14:00
Keynote Speech: Thelma Ekiyor, SME.NG 14:05 - 14:25
A: Intra-Africa Payments System: Mobile Money and the Role of Technology
B: The Prosperity Paradox: Building Market-Creating Innovation for Africa 14:30 - 15:30
Coffee Break 15:30 - 15:45
Fireside Chat with Joshua and Nate Ghaim 15:45 - 16:15
Africa Entrepreneurial Ecosystem 16:20 - 17:30
Closing Remarks 17:35
Evening Reception Remarks, Cher-Wen, Segal Family Foundation 17:35
Evening Networking Reception, sponsored by Segal Family Foundation 17:40 - 19:00
Saturday, January 2
Day Two: Investment and Entrepreneurship to Build Thriving Communities in Africa
The second day builds upon day one to understand how a workable infrastructure can be applied to create thriving ecosystems
in health care, agriculture, and education through investment and entrepreneurship.
Registration and Breakfast 8:00 - 9:00
Opening Entertainment: Live Performance 8:30 - 8:45
The Case for ADN, Josh Ghaim and Martin Russell 8:45 - 9:00
Summary of Day One, Nicholas Bassey
Keynote Address: Mimi Alemayehou, Black Rhino Group 9:10 - 9:35
African Luminaire Award 9:35 - 9:45
Builders of Africa’s Future Presentations: COLIBA, Deaftronics, Energy Efficiency, Flutterwave 9:50 - 10:20
Education in Africa 10:25 - 11:25
Fireside Chat: The Power of Storytelling 11:30 - 12:00
Lunch 12:00 - 13:00
Providing Access to Affordable and Quality Health Care in Africa 13:00 - 14:00
Builders of Africa’s Future Presentations: Keji Health Training, Refuge Place International, 14:05 - 14:35
Sidingulwazi, There is Hope
Coffee Break 14:40 - 14:55
A: Agriculture: Africa, the Breadbasket of the World 15:00 - 16:00
B: Accelerating African Impact Entrepreneurs: How might we strengthen the pipeline? by D-Lab at MIT 15:00 - 16:30
Builders of Africa’s Future Presentations: Uganics, Virtuoscore, YAA.W 16:35 - 17:00
BAF2020 Awards Recognition: Builders of Africa’s Future to the stage 17:00 - 17:10
Closing Remarks 17:10 - 17:30
Highlight: Tradition, Innovation, Entrepreneurship (TIE) Initiative: Infusing African Artistry into the World 17:30 - 17:40
of Fashion and Interior Design
Closing Reception and Entertainment: Live Performance, sponsored by the U.S. Africa 17:45 - 19:00
Development Foundation
African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2020 8
ADIS 2020 Speakers
Master of Ceremonies
Nicholas M. Bassey is Division Chief, Frontier Partnerships for the U.S. Agency for International
Development’s Global Development Lab (the Lab). This new team will strategically foster the Lab’s
Center for Transformational Partnerships’ “disrupt” portfolio through alliances with non-traditional
stakeholders. The team also seeks to develop innovative ways to leverage and unlock private sector
capital for international development.
Africans in the Diaspora Keynote Speakers
Mimi Alemayehou, Managing Director, Black Rhino Group
Mimi Alemayehou is Managing Director for Black Rhino Group, an investment platform focused
on the development and acquisition of energy and infrastructure assets across Africa. Prior to Black
Rhino, Ms. Alemayehou was appointed by President Obama and confirmed by the Senate to serve
as the Executive Vice President of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation, the development
finance agency of the U.S. Government. During Ms. Alemayehou’s tenure from 2010 to 2014,
OPIC’s portfolio grew by more than 24 percent to $18 billion and the corporation’s Africa portfolio
tripled to nearly $4 billion. Previously, Ms. Alemayehou was appointed by President George W.
Bush to serve as the United States Executive Director on the Board of the African Development Bank
(AfDB).
Luam Keflezgy, Founder and Director, Rock The Industry
Luam Keflezgy is a celebrity choreographer & creative director with clients such as Alicia Keys,
Beyonce, Nike, Rihanna, Kelly Rowland, Robin Thicke, Britney Spears, Kanye, Reebok, Janelle
Monae, X Factor, American Idol, America’s Got Talent and more. Also, as creator of Rock The
Industry, a member of the Creative Council for ‘Pencils of Promise’ charity, and TEDxPENN speaker,
she seeks new ways and opportunities to effect change. Luam recently launched the Industry Talk
Podcast, now on iTunes & Spotify and is currently working on writing projects in television and film.
Through her work, teachings and mentoring in the entertainment industry & beyond, Luam works to
promote spiritual resilience & resistance and advocates for those overcoming all obstacles to do so.
Joseph Mucheru, E.G.H., Minister of ICT
Joseph Mucheru, EGH, is the current Kenyan Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Information,
Communications and Technology. He is a former Google Sub-Sahara Africa Lead based in the
Google Nairobi office. He was Google’s first Sub-Saharan Africa employee and was key to setting
up of Google’s presence in Africa from 2007. Before joining Google he worked at Wananchi
Online, a company he co-founded in 1999, to provide affordable Internet connectivity for the
rapidly growing middle class in East Africa. He held various roles at the company including Chief
Technology Officer and Chief Executive Officer.
Thelma Ekiyor, Managing Partner, SME.NG
Ms. Thelma Ekiyor has over 19 years experience working in the development sector, as an impact
investor, donor, philanthropic advisor, nonprofit practitioner, and social entrepreneur. She has
experience working in 22 African countries. Ms. Ekiyor is the Managing Partner SME.NG –
Nigeria’s Impact Investment Platform, which has set up two impact funds for women entrepreneurs.
She is the Co-Founder/Chairperson of Afrigrants Resources and also served as its pioneering CEO.
At Afrigrants, she led the establishment of “Market Women’s Quick Cash” – A financial inclusion
solution to provide micro-loans to women in disadvantaged communities.
9 Defining An Investment Framework For Africa
African Diaspora Investment Symposium Welcome Reception
Michelle Glover, Almaz Negash, Sister Jane Wakahiu, Sup. Dave Cortese,
VP of Software Founder and Execu- LSOSF, Ph.D., Associate Vice Supervisor, District 3,
Development, SAP tive Director, African President of Program Operations County of Santa Clara
Diaspora Network and Head of Catholic Sisters
Initiative
Fireside Chat
Thane Kreiner, Sr. Juunza Mwangani, Sr. Eneless Chimabli,
Executive Director of Religious Sisters of the Secretary General of the Asso-
Miller Center for Social Holy Spirit, Zambia ciation of Consecrated Women
Entrepreneurship of Eastern and Central Africa
Spotlight on Innovation in Africa
Dèjì Akọ́mọláfẹ́, Peter Kegode, Magatte Wade,
Staff Solutions CEO, Nishati Atlas Network
Architect - Microsoft Koffee
Applications Lead,
vmWare
I was fortunate to tag along with one of the invitees when, nearly ten years ago, Almaz brought together a
group of friends to discuss an idea she had for a new type of organization, or network, or business, or...she
(we) didn’t know what exactly. Almaz has infectious enthusiasm and I also felt like I understood her vision
for what would become African Diaspora Network – I was hooked. Since day one it has been my pleasure
to help build ADN by pitching in wherever I could whether it was managing finances, editing newsletters,
or simply printing up ADIS name tags . Ten years later I am amazed at how far Almaz and a rotating cast of
volunteers has taken this organization, and I am proud to call her my sister.
– Dan Hartz, Envoy, Inc.
African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2020 10ADIS 2020 Session Details
Fifth Annual African Diaspora Investment Symposium
Overview
The African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2020 (ADIS2020) is the fifth annual global convening of leaders,
innovators, investors, and entrepreneurs who seek to uplift the African continent by building bridges among Africans, Dias-
porans, and friends of Africa. Located in Silicon Valley, the innovation and entrepreneurial capital of the world, the confer-
ence aims to inspire and empower participants to be agents of change and active contributors to Africa’s development.
The flagship event, held annually in Santa Clara County, California, USA, convenes entrepreneurially-minded, Africa-fo-
cused high-level leaders and professionals from across the world for insightful dialogue around investment and innovation
in Africa and partnership and mentorship opportunities. The symposium activates the potential of partnership, drawing over
1000 participants from Africa, Europe, Canada, and the United States over its past four editions.
The 2020 convening seeks to define an investment framework for Africa through workshops, panel discussions, fireside
chats, and participant-driven design labs focused on designing streamlined and sustainable systems across the continent.
With a key emphasis on harnessing the power of digitization, major themes include:
• The Role of Government and Businesses to Create Private-Public Partnerships
• Investment and Entrepreneurship to Build Thriving Communities in Africa
2020 Theme: “Defining an Investment Framework for Africa”
According to the 2019 World Bank Doing Business report, smaller African economies are making huge strides. Mauritius
ranks 20th on the “Ease of Doing Business” report card, as Sub-Saharan Africa stands as the most represented region
among the top ten improvers with Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire, Rwanda and Djibouti. Rwanda rose a remarkable 11 places
to 29th and is the only low-income economy ranked among the top 30 globally. This success is attributed to consistent
reforms rooted in digitization. Digital solutions have eased pertinent processes of filing taxes, accessing tax-related paper-
work, and property registration that have skyrocketed their economic progress.
Contrary to the popular myth of entrepreneurship, infrastructure and technology are the keys to Africa’s burgeoning busi-
ness revolution. According to Mariana Mazzucato’s The Entrepreneurial State (2015) the economic success of the U.S.
is the result of public and state-funded investments in innovation and technology, rather than a result of small-state, free
market doctrine that often receives credit for the nation’s economic strength. In essence, Africa will thrive with a strategic
investment framework that streamlines private-public partnerships, harnesses the potential of digitization, and establishes
sustainable infrastructure toward fruitful investments and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Tuesday, January 21, 7:00 - 9:00 pm | Builders of Africa’s Future: Welcome Reception
Upon arrival, the 2020 Builders of Africa’s Future Awardees will have an opportunity to settle into Hotel Avante and meet
with their cohort members in an informal setting. Light refreshments and snacks will be available for a peaceful, casual
gathering, as awardees prepare for the following full-day training.
Wednesday, January 22, 8:30 - 4:00 pm | Builders of Africa’s Future: Pitch Presentation
Mentorship
ADN offers a full-day workshop for the Builders of Africa’s Future Awardees, hosted by eBay and the Miller Center for
Entrepreneurship, Santa Clara University. The BAF2020 cohort will meet their mentors, practice pitches in preparation for
the Saturday presentations, and participate in an evening fellows reception.
4:15 - 5:15 pm | eBay Practice Pitches
After a full-day training, the 2020 BAF Awardees will have an opportunity to practice their pitches one-on-one with
mentors and receive constructive feedback from the eBay team. The awardees will an opportunity to refine their
preparations in advance of the Friday presentations.
11 Defining An Investment Framework For AfricaADIS 2020 Session Details
Fifth Annual African Diaspora Investment Symposium
5:30 - 7:30 pm | African Entrepreneurs Reception, hosted by eBay
All ADIS20 moderators, speakers, and entrepreneurs representing the five major pipelines of ADIS20 (Stanford Seed
Transformation Network Members, Harambeans, Segal Family Foundation African Visionary Fellows, Mastercard
Foundation Scholars, Builders of Africa’s Future) are invited for an evening kickoff reception at the eBay headquarters.
Thursday, January 23 | Pre-ADIS Convening & Evening Launch Reception
Sponsored by the Conrad Hilton Foundation
ADIS participants are invited to join our pre-ADIS convening! Attend our afternoon private meetings and events or take a
tour of the Computer History Museum. Join us for an evening reception as we welcome participants to network over hors
d’oeuvres, light refreshments, and live entertainment. Meet fellow attendees as we gather in community to celebrate the
launch of ADIS2020 and our fifth annual Barka Awards ceremony.
• Private Meetings & Events
• Tour of the Computer History Museum
• Networking Reception & Live Musical Entertainment
• Welcome Note & Opening Remarks
• Keynote Address
• Barka Awards Ceremony
• Fireside Chat: Blended Value and Social Enterprise Initiatives in Africa
• Spotlight on Innovation in Africa
• Hors d’oeuvres and Refreshments: Entertainment
9:00 - 11:00 am | African Diaspora Philanthropic Advisor Meeting
Join the African Diaspora Philanthropic Advisor (ADPA) Network for their first San Francisco meeting as we connect with
advisors from around the U.S. and the world. Participation in the global network is open to staff, independent consultants,
and advisory firms currently providing advice or guidance directly to donors of wealth or means including those working at
family foundations or corporate giving programs in which a living donor or immediate family member(s) remains involved
in the entities’ decision-making.
4:00 - 6:00 pm | Meet the African Entrepreneurs: Welcome & Roundtable (by invitation only)
Meet the rising stars of innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa. African Diaspora Network welcomes the 2020 Builders
of Africa’s Future Fellows, Mastercard Foundation Scholars, Segal Family Foundation Afican Visionary Fellows, Stanford
Seed Transformation Network Members, and Harambeans. This private roundtable discussion convenes over 45 brilliant
African entrepreneurs who are transforming the continent as practitioners spurring new business ventures and social
enterprises on the ground. Foundations, venture capitalists, investors, and influencers will have exclusive access to the best
and brightest who are catalyzing the future of Africa. Join us as we amplify and share the work of our honored guests with
the Silicon Valley community.
6:30 | Keynote Presentation by Luam Keflezgy, Rock The Industry
6:45 | Barka Awards Ceremony
“Barka” is an expression of gratitude. It is a word used in multiple languages and cultures in Africa. In fact, usage of the
word can be found across the continent including in Ghana, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Zambia, and the Democratic
Republic of Congo. To say “barka” in Moore’, Burkina Faso, is to express a gratitude so sincere and profound that it also
conveys a blessing; imparting a dual meaning to the word: thank you, and be blessed. African Diaspora Network is
pleased to present its fourth annual Barka Award.
6:50 | Fireside Chat: Blended Value and Social Enterprise Initiatives in Africa
How does the adoption of entrepreneurial principles enable congregations to become more financially self-sustaining
while scaling their impact serving the poor in their communities? Sisters are often among the most trusted community
members, augmenting their ability to engage potential customers and beneficiaries as well as youth in the products or
services of the enterprise. Discover the work of these “builders of Africa’s future” at the community and grassroots level.
African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2020 12Session Details
Fifth Annual African Diaspora Investment Symposium
17:20 pm | Spotlight on Innovation in Africa
Social enterprise leaders Peter Kegode of Ocean Sole Africa and Dèjì Akọ́mọláfẹ́ of vmWare will provide final remarks on
innovation in Africa.
Friday, January 24 | Designing Streamlined & Sustainable Systems Across the Continent
The first day is designed to provide a space for dialogue on the role of governments and businesses to create private-
public partnerships on sustainable infrastructure in the areas of finance, technology, energy, and innovation.
9:05 - 9:20 | Keynote Speech: Hon. Joseph Mucheru, EGH, Minister of Information, Communications and
Technology, Kenya
According to the U.S. Trade & Commerce Department, Kenya is the 98th largest goods trading partner, with a $1.0 billion
total of two-way goods traded during 2018. Goods exports totaled $365 million and goods imports totaled $644 million.
Conversely, Kenya has been a top advocate of Agenda 2030: Mapping the the United Nations Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs). Kenya’s success is largely attributed to their increased accountability and transparency through the use
of technology. How have streamlined systems opened up trade and investment opportunities from around the world? The
Minister of ICT, Kenya, The Honorable Joseph Mucheru, EGH, will explore this evolving landscape in the opening ADIS20
keynote presentation.
9:20 - 9:40 | Prosper Africa, the New U.S. Africa Trade and Investment Policy: Fred Stewart
The most recent Administration’s new signature initiative, Prosper Africa has emerged. The goal of Prosper Africa is quite
simple: it seeks to substantially increase two-way trade and investment. Prosper Africa will accomplish this goal by focusing
on three coordinated lines of effort. Prosper Africa is not a traditional aid program, but rather an ambitious new initiative
squarely focused on expanding the trade and investment relationships between the U.S. and Africa countries. This talk will
address:
1. How is the federal government leveraging the African diaspora to advance economic engagement with Africa?
2. What are the top 3 key challenges to greater U.S.-Africa economic engagement?
3. What is my top concrete recommendation for how U.S. governments, U.S. State governments, and African
governments and officials can work together to take advantage of existing opportunities to expand and deepen
economic relations between Africa and United States?
9:45 - 10:45 | Digitizing Africa to Create Systems of Accountability & Transparency
Digitization and innovation come hand in hand. In 2018, Kenya, Mozambique, Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Senegal
were recognized as “innovation achievers” by the Brookings Institute for having successfully harnessed technologies for
economic development. This session explores the ways in which digitization has provided avenues toward systems of
accountability and transparency, such as improving records through retail payments systems, boosting financial inclusion,
particularly of women entrepreneurs, promoting sustainable business models, and improving revenue administration.
Moderator 1 Panelist 1 Panelist 2 Panelist 3 Panelist 4
Duncan Goldie- Shelby Grossman, Siddharth Chatterjee, Hon. Joseph Thomas Debass,
Scot, Musoni Stanford Universiry UN Resident Coordinator Mucheru, Minis- U.S. Department of
Kenya Ltd. United Nations in Kenya ter of ICT, Kenya State
Coffee Break
13 Defining An Investment Framework For AfricaSession Details
Fifth Annual African Diaspora Investment Symposium
11:00 - 12:00 pm | Power Africa: Energy & Renewable Resources
According to USAID, two out of three people in sub-Saharan Africa lack access to electricity. How do we go beyond the
grid to increase the number of people who have access to power? This session examines projects including Power Africa,
launched in 2013, that leverage partnerships to achieve the effective implementation of clean energy systems and efficient
electricity generation to millions of homes and businesses on the Continent.
Moderator 1 Panelist 1 Panelist 2 Panelist 3
Christina Cairns, Mimi Alemayeho, Nkanyiso Madlala, Founder & Chief Alycia Kellman, SunFunder,
USAID Black Rhino Group Executive Officer, Energy Efficiency Chief Legal Officer
(Pty) Ltd. 2020 BAF Awardee
Networking Lunch
13:00 - 14:00 | Diaspora Remittances and Sustainable Development Agenda 2030
The World Bank estimates that in 2018, Africans in the diaspora remitted $46 billion. This figure reflects the magnitude by
which Africans in the diaspora are participating in economic development of the continent. In addition, the figures reflecting
levels of both education and economics show the latent potential of the African diaspora community for mobilizing
greater human and capital assets in support of their home communities in Africa. In this session, our speakers will discuss
how remittances from Africans in the Diaspora is contributing to several of the SDG’s, the role of technology to transform
markets, and the regulatory environment from the sending countries and the Continent.
Moderator 1 Panelist 1 Panelist 2 Panelist 3 Panelist 4
Yohannes Pedro De Grace Camara, Thelma Ekiyor, Owen Ruwodo,
Assefa, Board of Vasconcelos Executive Director, Managing Partner, Arigo Investments
Directors, Ethiopia Manager, Financing Fa- RemitFund SME.NG Africa
Diaspora Trust cility for Remittances - FFR
Fund
14:05 - 14:25 | Afternoon Keynote Speech, Thelma Ekiyor, SME.NG
14:30 - 15:30 | Afternoon Breakout Sessions
Session A: Intra-Africa Payments Systems: Mobile Money and the Role of Technology
Transaction flows among Africa have transformed since the inception of mobile money. Removing major market barriers,
cell phones and other digital technologies have been employed to streamline payments systems across the continent. How
has the movement of financial flows across borders changed and expanded overtime? This session examines movement of
financial flows and goods and how Africa may accelerate intra-regional trade within the Continent.
Moderator 1 Panelist 1 Panelist 2 Panelist 3 Panelist 4
Hugh Molotsi, Yomi Adedeji, CEO, Moses Choi, Orange Azeez Bryan Pon,
Ujama, Inc. Softcom, Lagos, Nigeria, Silicon Valley Olumafemi, Caribou Data
Stanford Seed Transforma- Flutterwave
tion Network Member
African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2020 14Session Details
Fifth Annual African Diaspora Investment Symposium
Session B: The Prosperity Paradox: Building Market-Creating Innovation for Africa
Entrepreneurs transform complex and expensive products into simpler and more affordable ones – products and services
that don’t just target the 80 million consumers in Africa’s middle class, but the 800 million who are not yet full participants
in the global economy. This session will shed light on the progress of the market-creating innovation movement by bringing
together key stakeholders in the ecosystem. Over the past decade, for example, Harambeans have spawned a series of
market-creating ventures such as Andela, Flutterwave and MAX – a pan-African network of startups, which have raised
over $400m and are valued at over $1bn.
Facilitator 1 Facilitator 2
Okendo Lewis-Gayle, Harambeans Efosa Ojomo, Harambeans
15:45 - 16:15 | Fireside Chat with Joshua and Nate Ghaim: Diasporans are Entrepreneurs,
Philanthropists, Investors, and Innovators
How does one thrive in the midst of migration? Diasporans share the challenge of establishing roots in a new country for
their families and themselves. Joshua Ghaim, Founder and Managing Partner of IgniteGB Inc, and Nate Ghaim, CEO
of Hanzo Logistics, Inc., will share their stories of overcoming barriers in pursuit of a good education and career, while
maintaining their traditional values, family, community, friendship, and generosity. Learn from the paths of two leaders
who are an inspiration to all those who are working to find their way in the ecosystems of innovation, investment, and
entrepreneurs.
Moderator 1 Panelist 1 Panelist 2
Almaz Negash, African Diaspora Network Joshua Ghaim, IgniteGB Inc. Nate Ghaim, Hanzo Logistics
16:20 - 17:20 | Africa Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
What is the State of the Entrepreneurship Ecosystem in Africa? Africa is fertile for innovation, entrepreneurship, and
investment, thanks to its young, eager to learn, and vibrant population. Yet, compared to the rest of the world, Africa is still
lagging behind other regions in developing an ecosystem that is conducive to creating sustainable and thriving businesses.
In this session, you will hear from African SME’s on the challenges and opportunities they face to overcome structural
factors and produce some of the most innovative and successful enterprises on the continent.
Moderator 1 Panelist 1 Panelist 2 Panelist 3 Panelist 4
Darius Teter, Executive Mr. Yomi Adedeji, Dr. Elikem Keza Bunyenyezi Joan Rukundo
Director, Stanford SEED CEO, Softcom Ltd Tamaklo, Managing Chief Commercial Nalubega,
Director, Nyaho Officer, Founder, Uganics
Medical Centre ComzAfrical
Closing Remarks
Evening Networking Reception, sponsored by Segal Family Foundation
Saturday, January 25 | Day Two: Investment and Entrepreneurship to Build Thriving
Communities in Africa
The second day builds upon day one to understand how a workable infrastructure can be applied to create thriving
ecosystems in health care, agriculture, and education through investment and entrepreneurship.
8:45 - 9:05 | The Case for ADN & Summary of Day One, Joshua Ghaim and Martin Russell
9:10 - 9:35 | Morning Keynote Address, Mimi Alemayehou
15 Defining An Investment Framework For AfricaSession Details
Fifth Annual African Diaspora Investment Symposium
9:10 - 9:35 | African Diaspora Luminaire Awards
African Diaspora Network is delighted to present the inaugural African Diaspora Luminaire Award (ADLA). The African
Diaspora Luminaire Award recognizes a distinguished African, Diaspora, or friend of Africa who has made high-
level impact on a global scale. The selected individual will have made exceptional contributions and a demonstrated
commitment to advance the continent and the communities in which we live.
9:50 - 10:20 | Builders of Africa’s Future Presentations
COLIBA, Deaftronics, Energy Efficiency, Flutterwave
10:25 - 11:25 | Education in Africa
With the expected population boom anticipated to double by 2050, Africa must look to its youth to hone talent and skills
for its next generation of leaders and workforce. Education is widely recognized as the great equalizer, and entrepreneurs
and innovators are leveraging new means of expanding and enriching education in Africa. Explore the challenges that
educational organizations are addressing and how digitization and revolutionizing curriculum have become key steps to
unlocking African potential and excellence.
Moderator 1 Panelist 1 Panelist 2 Panelist 3 Panelist 4
Ashlye Stewart, Abdul Mahdi, Dean Dan LeClair, CEO, Amini Kajunju, Exec- Michelle Mfuni,
Aser Capital of Students & Com- Global Business utive Director PhD Candidate, Uni-
munity Affairs, Ashesi School Network IUGB Foundation, Inc versity of Memphis
University, Ghana
11:30 - 12:00 | Fireside Chat with Kofi Appenteng: The Power of Storytelling
In a time where movements for inclusivity are taking shape, there is an increased awareness of both individual identity
and our common humanity. Throughout history, the stories of Afro-descendants have been misrepresented, affecting
the perception of Afro-descendants amongst their peer group. How do we illuminate and integrate Afro-descendant
storytelling as a core part of education curricula? Kofi Appenteng, President of the Africa-America Institute, will unearth
how the integration of Afro-descendant storytelling in dominant narratives can prepare all young people to become global
citizens.
Moderator 1 Spaeker 1
Jacqueline Bouvier Copeland, PhD, Chief Operating Of- Kofi Appenteng, President, Africa-America Institute
ficer, AnitaB.org, Chair, Renewell, A Planetary Health Fund
Networking Lunch
13:00 - 14:00 | Providing Access to Affordable and Quality Health Care in Africa
Public health care in Africa has faced numerous historical barriers ranging from a lack of funding to poor infrastructure.
Across countries, the quality of health care varies vastly, but improvements in services are slowly budding in various
regions. What best practices have been implemented to improve public and private health care systems, how does
insurance vary per region, and how can treatment become more accessible? This session takes a look at case studies
across African nations and what is being done to address challenges in infrastructure, doctors shortages, facilities, and
quality of care on the continent.
Moderator 1 Panelist 1 Panelist 2 Panelist 3 Panelist 4
Binyah Kesselly, Dr. Elikem Tamaklo, Emily Bancroft, Mosoka P. Fallah, Dr. Wilfred
J&J Supply Chain Managing Director, Nyaho President, PhD, Acting Director Ngwa, Director,
Corporation Medical Centre, Accra, VillageReach General, National Global Health
Ghana, Stanford Seed Trans- Public Health Institute Catalyst, Harvard
formation Network Member of Liberia (NPHIL) University
African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2020 16Session Details
Fifth Annual African Diaspora Investment Symposium
14:05 - 14:35 | Builders of Africa’s Future Presentations:
Keji Health Training, Refuge Place International, Sidingulwazi, There is Hope
Coffee Break
Afternoon Breakout Sessions
15:00 - 16:00 | Session A: Agriculture: Africa, the Breadbasket of the World
According to an analysis by McKinsey & Company, Africa’s agricultural footprint amasses 23% of the sub-Saharan
region’s GDP, with more than 60% of the population being smallholder farmers. However, the potential of agriculture has
yet to be fully tapped. How do we increase productivity through crops and livestock? This session digs into opportunities for
growth among various countries across the Continent, accounting for factors such as supply and demand, land expansion,
competition, and the role of government, investors, and development partners.
Moderator 1 Panelist 1 Panelist 2 Panelist 3 Panelist 4
William Scott, AgIn- Mareme Dieng, Ikenna Nzewi, Mike Dentinger, C.D. Glin, President &
vest International LLC Draper Net- Releaf Trimble Agriculture CEO, U.S. African Develop-
work/University ment Foundation
15:00 - 16:30 | Session B: Accelerating African Impact Entrepreneurs: How might we strengthen the
pipeline?
Entrepreneurship in Africa is booming. Over the last decades we have seen a parallel rise in international and local
accelerators focused on supporting the growing pipeline of founders who are innovating product and business solutions
to Africa’s most pressing challenges. Nevertheless the number of African-led social enterprises that have risen to attract
the level of capital necessary to truly scale their impact is still small. In this session, you will hear from three Africa-focused
accelerators who will share their learning and key challenges in unlocking the continent’s entrepreneurial potential. Session
participants will be invited to directly engage in developing potential solutions to some of these challenges by using several
MIT D-Lab participatory design tools as a framework for ideation.
Moderator 1 Panelist 1 Panelist 2
Saida Benhayoune, MIT Lab Jona Repishti, MIT Lab Michael Moscherosch, J&J Africa Innovation
Challenge
16:35 - 17:00 | Builders of Africa’s Future Presentations:
Uganics, Virtuoscore, YAA.W
17:00 - 17:10 | Builders of Africa’s Future Awards Recognition
17:10 - 17:30 | Closing Remarks
17:30 - 17:40 | Highlight: Tradition, Innovation, Entrepreneurship (TIE) Initiative: Infusing African Artistry
into the World of Fashion and Interior Design
Showcasing the bright and complex hand-woven fabrics of Ghana and Ethiopia, the T I E model sets the stage to amplify
iconic African design to global markets. It will provide the world of fashion and home décor a beautiful—and ethical—way
to bring traditional hand-crafted products to consumers, while enhancing quality of life in African artisan communities.
T I E is a ground-breaking effort, conceived by leadership of the US African Development Foundation, PYXERA Global,
Association of Ghana Industries and Jaipur Rugs Company.
17:45 - 19:00 | Closing Reception and Entertainment: Live Performance, sponsored by the U.S. Africa
Development Foundation
17 Defining An Investment Framework For AfricaEsteemed Speakers and Panelists
Yomi Adedeji, CEO, Softcom Ltd
Yomi Adedeji co-founded Softcom Limited in 2007. Since the company’s formation, Yomi has held
several positions including those of the managing partner, CEO, and Head of IT. Yomi is a tech enthusiast
which emphasizes his commitment to building a solutions company focused on connecting people,
businesses, and communities in Africa using technology. Under his leadership, Softcom has pioneered
some of Africa’s largest technology-focused deployments in addressing various problems for leading
telecoms, consumer goods, financial, retail and governmental organizations. Yomi received a B.Sc from
Covenant University in 2007, and is an Alumnus of the Stanford University Seed Program.
Yohannes Assefa, Board of Directors, Ethiopia Diaspora Trust Fund
Yohannes Assefa is the Director of Agriculture and Agribusiness at the USAID East Africa Trade and
Investment Hub. The Hub works to deepen regional integration, increasing the competitiveness of select
regional agricultural value chains, promotes two-way trade with the U.S. under AGOA and facilitates
investment and technology to increase regional integration and trade. As part of his work, Mr. Assefa
helped to facilitate 1.4 million mt of grain in the EAC region for a total value of nearly $500 million.
Prior to joining the Hub, Mr. Assefa was a Director at Stalwart, Knowledge, Innovation and Technology
Ltd., a Dubai-based consulting firm focusing on the development of financial and agricultural markets in
developing countries.
Kofi Appenteng, President, Africa-America Institute
Kofi Appenteng is the President of the Africa-America Institute (AAI), a non-profit organization founded
in 1953 with a mission of promoting enlightened engagement between Africa and America through
education, training and dialogue. Born in Ghana, West Africa, Appenteng began his studies in England
where he completed his primary and secondary education and then came to the United States to
attend Wesleyan University. Upon graduating from Wesleyan, he earned a Juris Doctor from Columbia
University and subsequently began his career as a corporate lawyer and, in 1994, became the first
Black African to become a partner at a major New York City law firm. Throughout his career, Appenteng
has been active with numerous civil society organizations. He is currently a member of the board at the
Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, and previously served as board chair of the Ford Foundation.
Emily Bancroft, President, VillageReach
Emily is responsible for the strategy, oversight, and management of VillageReach programs and global
operations, working closely with a global team of more than 170 employees. A leader in systems
change, much of Emily’s work is focused on aligning governments, donors, private sector partners, and
NGOs to help scale and sustain innovations. She is recognized for her global leadership in improving
supply chains and for developing scalable and replicable digital health solutions in low- and middle-
income countries. Prior to joining VillageReach, Emily worked with the International Training and
Education Center on Health (I-TECH), Physicians for Human Rights, and NPower, a pioneering social
enterprise focused on transforming the way nonprofits use technology to achieve their mission. Emily is
a Clinical Instructor in the Department of Health Services at the University of Washington. She holds an
MPH from the University of Washington School of Public Health and a BA from Princeton University.
Saida Benhayoune, Program Director, MIT D-Lab
Captivated by D-Lab’s mission of poverty alleviation through technology design and dissemination,
Saida joined the staff in 2011 to launch D-Lab Scale-Ups, which included the D-Lab Scale-Ups
Fellowship, the Scaling Development Ventures conference, the Practical Impact Alliance, and several
D-Lab research groups. She leads D-Lab’s strategy for social entrepreneurship and inclusive business
and from 2017-2018 co-lead MIT D-Lab’s Innovation Practice group. Saida holds a biochemical
engineering degree and an MBA and prior to D-Lab gained 10 years of experience in manufacturing,
sourcing and sustainability for the food industry, including programs linking small-scale farmers to
international markets.
Keza Bunyenyezi, Chief Commercial Officer, ComzAfrica
Keza Bunyenyezi is a co-founder of ComzAfrica (“Comza”), a mobile innovations company based in
Rwanda. Since its inception in 2010, Comza grew its footprint to 25 countries across Africa, Asia & the
Middle East with its flagship product, Airtime Credit Service (ACS), a cashless microloan service that
allows customers to stay online even when they run out of airtime. Inspired and driven by the extent
to which tech can transform lives, Keza is responsible for the strategic development of the company
focusing on digital lending and payments platforms particularly for the unbanked.
African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2020 18Esteemed Speakers and Panelists
Christina Cairns, Foreign Service Officer, U.S. Agency for International Development
(USAID)
Christina Cairns has served as a Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Agency for International
Development (USAID) since 2012. She joined the Power Africa Coordinator’s Office within USAID
in 2017 as the Development Partnerships Team Lead, where she is responsible for developing and
operationalizing Power Africa’s relationships with bilateral and multilateral organizations, including
nineteen donor, DFI and technical agencies. Prior to joining Power Africa, Christina served as the
Climate Change and Natural Resource Advisor to the USAID regional mission in the Eastern and
Southern Caribbean. During her career with USAID, she has also supported the development of climate
change adaptation and mitigation.
Grace Camara, Executive Director, RemitFund
Grace Camara is the Executive Director of RemitFund, an award-winning non-profit that transforms
remittances into social impact. RemitFund empowers Africans in diaspora to create and invest in
sustainable businesses in Africa. A lawyer by profession, Grace has over a decade of experience
advising non-profits and social ventures on institutional donor compliance, commercial and strategic
legal issues.She has practised in both private and non-profit sectors, including as legal counsel for the
Thomson Reuters Foundation. Grace also worked as a legal policy researcher for Oxfam International,
specialising in economic development and trade policy.
Siddharth Chatterjee, Resident Coordinator for Kenya, United Nations
Siddharth Chatterjee is the United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator for Kenya since August 2016. He
leads the UN Country Team to deliver on the UN Development Assistance Framework in Kenya. He has
spent most of his career in the UN working in fragile states and complex emergencies, serving in various
capacities with the UN Mission in Iraq, UNICEF offices in Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan (Darfur),
Indonesia and the UN Peace Keeping Operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iraqi Kurdistan.
Sr. Eneless Chimabli, Secretary General of the Association of Consecrated Women of
Eastern and Central Africa
Sr. Eneless Chimbali has been a member for 21 years of the Religious Institute of the a Servant of the
Blessed Virgin Mary in Malawi, whose charism is to “Bring Jesus Christ to the Vulnerable especially
Children and Women.” She has just finished her term of office as a Secretary General for the Association
of Consecrated Women in Eastern and Central Africa, in which she provided capacity building in
formation, leadership and management. She holds a Bsc Hon in Business Information Technology
from Greenwich University - UK, an Advanced Diploma in Business Management, and a Certificate in
Biblical Pastoral Ministry from the Biblical Institute - Rome. Sr. Eneless is very passionate about social
entrepreneurship because she feels is the only way to succeed in mission to the people we serve, thereby
bringing transformation economically and socially.
Jacqueline Bouvier Copeland, PhD, Chief Operating Officer, AnitaB.org, Chair, Renewell,
A Planetary Health Fund
A seasoned global social and environmental impact leader and scholar, Dr. Copeland is the Chief
Operating Officer of AnitaB.org, the world’s preeminent Women in Tech enterprise. An expert on
cultural and ecosystem diversity issues, she is recognized as a HistoryMaker for her innovative
civic contributions. Trained as an anthropologist and urban designer, she creates impact strategies,
movements, organizations, programs, technologies, funding, and systems for companies, foundations,
nonprofits and governments operating in the US, the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, Asia and Latin America.
Jackie holds two master’s degrees, one in urban design and the other in cultural anthropology, with a
Ph.D. in anthropology all from the University of Pennsylvania. Specializing in the US, Africa and South
Asia, her undergraduate degrees are from Georgetown University’s liberal arts and foreign service
schools in literature and African studies. She also studied African history, culture, languages and religion
at University of Ife in Nigeria under Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka.
Moses Choi, Head of Digital and Sustainable Finance, Orange Silicon Valley
Moses Choi is a seasoned investor and financial services professional and has executed over $15Bn in
capital markets and principal investment transactions. He currently leads strategy, product innovation,
and deal sourcing in support of Orange’s financial services and mobile money business units. Prior
to joining Orange, Moses was Vice President at Morgan Stanley, where he focused on cross-asset
origination and represented the firm on the ICMA’s Green Bond Principles Executive Committee. He
began his career at Citigroup in capital markets. He is a contributor to the World Economic Forum
and holds a master’s degree from the Fletcher School at Tufts University and a BS and BA from Cornell
University.
19 Defining An Investment Framework For AfricaEsteemed Speakers and Panelists
Thomas DeBass, Acting Special Representative for Global Partnerships, U.S. Department
of State
Thomas Debass serves as Managing Director of Office of Global Partnerships at the U.S. Department
of State. Thomas has played a leading role in promoting and institutionalizing the role of public
private partnerships as a tool for advancing foreign policy. He regularly gives lectures and talks about
the intersection of foreign policy, business, and society. Prior to joining the State Department, he was
Lead Economist with the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) and also served as a senior
advisor at USAID. Thomas is a graduate of Virginia Tech with a MS in Applied Economics and a BA in
Economics.
Mike Dentinger, Director, AG OEM Development, Trimble, Inc.
Mr. Dentinger is the Director of AG OEM Development for Trimble, Inc. based in Sunnyvale, CA, USA.
He has been with Trimble for 29 years and in the Silicon Valley Tech Industry for 38 years and has a
BS and MS in Electrical Engineering from the University of California, Davis. For the last 10 years, Mr.
Dentinger has been working in Trimble’s Agriculture Division. For his first seven years in Ag he was in
Engineering Management, Product Development and served as the Director of Engineering for The Ag
Division. He currently works in Worldwide OEM (Ag Vehicle Manufacturers) Development (Marketing)
with the goal of introducing and developing Trimble Precision Agriculture Technology. Most recently he
has been working in emerging markets; smaller Ag vehicles/farm size, primarily in India. Mr. Dentinger
has several Trimble Patents and is a member of the Board of Advisors for the Biological and Agriculture
Program at University of California, Davis.
Flo Falayi, Forbes Certified Coach, Forbes Coaches Council
Dr Flo Falayi is The Hybrid Leader™ - American born, British educated, and Nigerian raised leadership
development expert and executive coach with varied and significant experience across Fortune 100
companies and non-profit organizations. He is a well-respected, thought leader who blends a diverse
strategic approach to leadership development and organizational effectiveness.Dr. Flo is a Forbes
Certified Coach, YALE Scholar, a fellow of the Institute of Information Management and the founder of
the Hybrid Leadership Institute. He is extremely passionate about multicultural leadership and speaks
on the power of leadership styles and culture in transforming leaders and organizations for maximum
impact.
Mosoka P. Fallah, PhD, Acting Director General, National Public Health Institute of Liberia
(NPHIL)
Dr. Mosoka P. Fallah completed his PhD in Immunology at the University of Kentucky. He subsequently
studied Global Health, with a concentration in Infectious Disease Epidemiology, at the Harvard Chan
School of Public Health. Upon graduation in 2013, he returned to Liberia to focus on maternal and
child health in a country that was ravaged by civil war and that was trying to rebuild its health system.
When the Ebola outbreak occurred, he leveraged his skills in epidemiology and program management
to lead the Ebola response, launching an active case finding system that became a recognized model
for epidemic control. For his work building community-level trust in the Ebola response, Dr. Fallah was
named a Time Magazine Persons of the Year in 2014.
Josh Ghaim, Ph.D., Founder and Managing Partner – IgniteGB Inc.; Co-Founder and CEO -
Small World Brands Inc
Josh Ghaim is the Founder and Managing Partner of Ignite Growth Brands (IgniteGB), a new brand and
innovation accelerator focused in the Health and Beauty markets as well as investments and support of
Women and Minority led start-ups. Josh is also the Co-Founder and CEO of Small World Brands, the
parent company of Nuria Beauty and Recharge Health brands. As a 20 year veteran of CPG Industry,
Josh is passionate about translating consumer and technical insights into sustainable, modern brands
with focus in the beauty and consumer healthcare industry by leveraging technology to provide better
access and better experience to consumers and patients.
Nate Ghaim, Founder & CEO, Hanzo Logistics
Nate Ghaim founded Hanzo Logistics Inc. in late 2008 and has been the Chairman & CEO of Hanzo
Logistics Inc. He also founded Ghaim Corporation (Supply Chain Consulting company) in 2013 and has
been the President & CEO. He also currently serves as President of Doorways which was established in
2018. Nate has a vast leadership Experience with over 25 years operations experience in the Global
Supply Chain and logistics field. His range of expertise includes warehouse operations, customer
service, strategic planning and project management in establishing new Distribution Centers for supply
chain operations and all automation. Nate also has been involved in the IT sector as a partner and CEO
of Integrated Technical Services (ITS) in IT procurement and software development.
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